FXI vs VYM
iShares China Large-Cap ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FXI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.73% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $4.2B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.14% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 59 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -10.86% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | -5.43% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.19% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.73% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -73.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 5, 2004 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FXI vs VYM Performance
iShares China Large-Cap ETF (FXI) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FXI returned -5.43% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, FXI is down 10.86% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, FXI compounded at +11.19% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -0.73% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +3.75%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FXI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 26.4% compared with 14.6% for VYM. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -73.3% for FXI and -58.8% for VYM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.45. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FXI charges 0.73% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $73 vs $4 annually, a gap of $69 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FXI currently yields 2.14% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FXI and VYM share 0 holdings out of 609 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FXI or VYM?
FXI has an expense ratio of 0.73% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $69 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FXI or VYM?
Over the past year FXI returned -5.43% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), FXI annualized +3.75% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FXI or VYM?
FXI has been the more volatile fund at 26.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FXI -73.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FXI and VYM?
FXI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.45, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FXI and VYM?
FXI and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 609 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FXI or VYM?
FXI yields 2.14% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.